As tastings go, a recent event featuring 20 years of Kumeu River’s Hunting Hill Chardonnay was truly exceptional. Paul Brajkovich attended the session, representing the family, while Stephen Browett, an ardent admirer of Kumeu River wines, hosted the tasting at Farr Vintners. Browett has been a fan since his first visit to Kumeu in January… Read More »
The third Chenin Blanc International Celebration took place in July 2025 in the Loire Valley, beginning in Angers at L’École Supérieure des Agricultures. Hosted by Philippe Porché, president of Fan de Chenin, the event gathered 250 delegates to honor the late Evelyne de Pontbriand, the pioneering president of Savennières, who helped establish the celebration. Following… Read More »
Penfolds is recognized as one of Australia’s premiere wine producers, renowned for its flagship wine, Grange (Bin 95), which has been crafted since the 1950s. They offer a variety of Bin wines, including Bin 389, a blend that used to be quite affordable but has gradually become pricier while remaining cheaper than Grange. Bin 389… Read More »
Knox Alexander and Isabelle Clendenen, the children of the late Jim Clendenen, are continuing the legacy of Au Bon Climat, the iconic California winery that played a pivotal role in establishing Santa Barbara County as a key player in cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The winery, known as ABC, is deeply rooted in international markets,… Read More »
Peruvian cuisine showcases a vibrant blend of flavors from its diverse geography, ranging from the majestic Andes mountains to the rich Pacific coast. Known for its bold and varied tastes, this culinary landscape combines over 6,000 varieties of potatoes, numerous chili peppers, and an abundance of seafood. Signature dishes include cebiche, ají de gallina, and… Read More »
This special masterclass was presented by Paz Levinson, a renowned sommelier from Argentina currently working with Ann Sophie Pic in France, alongside Christina Rasmussen of Littlewine, who participated in an ‘Argentina Reloaded’ tour. The initiative aims to reshape perceptions around Argentine wines, which are often narrowly associated with value-for-money Malbec. While Malbec remains significant in… Read More »
When Champagne house Moët & Chandon sought to extend its reach internationally, South America was a prime target for establishing a winery. The countries considered included Chile, which has been crafting sparkling wines since 1879, Argentina since 1902, and Brazil since 1913. Ultimately, the decision favored Mendoza, Argentina, following some experimental harvests in the late… Read More »
Visited Noble Rot Mayfair for an evening of delightful wines that unexpectedly turned into a tasting of four extraordinary bottles. Langham Culver Classic NV, Dorset, England Alcohol: 12% Composition: 86% from 2022, 14% reserve wine; 45% Pinot Meunier, 43% Pinot Noir, 12% Chardonnay. Tasting Notes: Almost two years on lees with a dosage of 1.5… Read More »
Biondi-Santi, a historic Tuscan winery renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino, recently showcased its evolution through a tasting event featuring the 2023 Rosso di Montalcino, the 2020 Brunello di Montalcino, and various Riservas from iconic years. Despite the absence of viticulture and winemaking director Federico Radi due to a virus, the event held at Hunan… Read More »
Mixing cocktails with equal parts is one of the simplest yet most satisfying methods of crafting drinks. Bartenders attribute the enduring appeal of these balanced cocktails to the harmonious interplay of ingredients, which elevates their complexity and taste. The Allure of Equal Parts Cocktails Bartenders like Erik Lorincz from Kwãnt Mayfair highlight the magic of… Read More »